[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 198 (Monday, December 17, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1679]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING NEW YORK FARMERS AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO ``HARVEST FOR 
                                 ALL''

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOHN KATKO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, December 17, 2018

  Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the farmers in my 
district, alongside the New York Farm Bureau, for their participation 
in the ``Harvest For All'' program. ``Harvest For All'' is a nationwide 
program that seeks to distribute food to needy families and 
individuals. Run by farm bureaus and food banks across the country, the 
program has been assisting underserved communities for nearly two 
decades.
  ``Harvest For All'' was started in 2002 by members of the Farm 
Bureau's Young Farmers & Ranchers program but now includes volunteers 
of all ages. The program operates year round and has donated nearly 223 
million pounds of food, as well as amassed over 121,000 volunteer hours 
since it began. Between monetary and food contributions, ``Harvest For 
All'' donates an amount equivalent to 31 million meals.
  In New York State, ``Harvest For All'' has a strong presence and 
reaches many New Yorkers in need. In 2016, the New York Farm Bureau 
donated 13.2 million pounds of food, the second largest total among 
state Farm Bureaus. They have donated 11 million pounds of food so far 
in 2018, an amount that translates to 9,000,000 meals for 
underprivileged New Yorkers. In addition to food donations, the New 
York Farm Bureau is teaching New Yorkers the culinary knowledge 
necessary to prepare healthier foods.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in 
recognizing the local farmers, New York Farm Bureau, and Farm Bureaus 
around the country, for their participation in ``Harvest For All.'' 
During this time of year in particular, it is incredibly important we 
count our blessings and help those who are less fortunate. ``Harvest 
For All'' is a program that embodies this standard as farmers 
nationwide strive to improve the quality of life for millions in our 
great country. I thank the Central New York farmers who contribute to 
this program year after year and recognize their role in building a 
better New York.

                          ____________________